NEWS

President’s Day is a time for us to reflect and give thanks to those larger-than-life leaders who have led and shaped this nation. Originally this day was established in honor of our first President George Washington’s Birthday and remember his wise leadership at the founding of America and for Abraham Lincoln, the first Republican President, who led us through the civil war and the ending of slavery.  In some of the darkest days of the Republic, he never wavered and died for his cause of ending slavery while maintaining the union. 

 

I was lucky enough to work as a lawyer for two presidents. 

 

First, following law school I served President Ronald W. Reagan, the 40th President of the United States.  You will remember that he won a sweeping election victory in 1980 with the campaign slogan “Let’s Make America Great Again.”  Democrats claimed his election would bringnuclear war, a destruction of our economy, and the elimination of personal freedom.  How wrong they were.  His campaign slogan proved prophetic as President Reagan brought prosperity and respect to the country after the malaise of President Carter’s administration.  He was responsible for the end of the Cold War.  I will never forget his Berlin speech where he declared “tear down this wall” and eventually the Berlin Wall fell and the shackles of communism loosened around the world. 

 

I also had the honor of serving as a White House Counsel to President George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States. Like President Reagan, he was a man of character and resolve.  Having himself served as a pilot in the Navy who flew 58 combat missions in World War II, he enjoyed wide popularity with the men and women in the military.  He excelled in foreign affairs and oversaw the demise of the Soviet Union begun under President Reagan, helping the world with a peaceful transition from the dark days of communism.  He also was a serious defender of the safety of our country and of our allies.  In operation Desert Storm, he defeated Iraq’s “million-man” army after weeks of air and missile bombardment and a 100-hour land battle. 

 

This year, we will have another presidential election.  The choices are stark.  President Reagan’s words in 1980 “Let’s Make America Great Again” are as powerful a clarion call now as they were then.  

 

The election this year for Utah’s U.S. Senator is likewise important.  Utah cannot waste its Senate seat on someone whose beliefs are not grounded in constitutional principles, who does not believe in limited government, personal responsibility, and the dignity of human life.  Utah must elect a Senator who understands what is at stake, is willing to stand for conservative, common sense principles, and has the experience to work with a new administration to course correct our nation. I believe I am that person.  I have the experience and background to be that person.